NEW ULM — Local business leaders gathered this week for the Chamber of Commerce’s annual CEO panel, offering candid insights into the evolving challenges and opportunities shaping New Ulm’s economy. From workforce retention to artificial intelligence, panelists shared strategies rooted ...

LAKE CRYSTAL – There are 143 stairs from the ground to the top of the POET Bioprocessing building outside Lake Crystal. Thursday, 11 individuals with the Nicollet Fire Department, Courtland Fire Department, Lake Crystal Fire Department and Army National Guard climbed these steps 15 times in ...

SLEEPY EYE — Sleepy Eye Public School Superintendent John Cselovszki told the school board Wednesday he is optimistic about possible funding help for required mascot replacement costs estimated at $500,000. “On Tuesday, I returned a phone call from Rep. Torkelson, (R-Hanska). The initial ...

ST. PAUL — Prospects look good for Minnesota fall hunting, according to DNR Wildlife Manager Jeff Zajac. Archery deer season begins Saturday, Sept. 13. The firearms deer hunt begins Saturday, Nov. 8. Closing dates depend on location. Zajac says deer hunting should be successful as long as ...

SLEEPY EYE — After discussion Tuesday, the Sleepy Eye City Council unanimously approved setting a 12.5% 2026 preliminary tax hike. Sleepy Eye City Manager Bob Elston initially recommended a 9.76 preliminary tax increase that would have boosted the city levy 9.76 percent, from $1,849,700 to ...

BROWN COUNTY — The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) reports water from six private wells tested at Farmfest exceeded the federal health standard for nitrate-nitrogen this year. Another nine private wells showed elevated levels. Three of every four Minnesotans rely on groundwater ...